Air quality data collected between 2012 and 2014 demonstrates the area is now meeting the eight-hour ozone national ambient air quality standard and that the standard is being met due to permanent, enforceable emission reductions. Projects and computer modeling indicate the area can continue to meet the 2008 ozone standard for at least the next 10 years.

Ohio also is requesting U.S. EPA approve the state’s maintenance plan for this area. The plan includes actions that can be taken to achieve additional emission reductions if the ozone standard is not achieved after the area is redesignated.

During the hearing, the public can submit oral or written comments on the proposed redesignation request and maintenance plan. Ohio EPA also will accept written comments through June 2, 2016. Anyone may submit comments by writing to: Erica Fetty or Jennifer Van Vlerah, Ohio EPA Division of Air Pollution Control, Lazarus Government Center, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, OH 43216-1049; or emailing erica.fettydavis@epa.ohio.gov or jennifer.vanvlerah@epa.ohio.gov.

More information on the redesignation request is available online or by calling Ohio EPA’s Division of Air Pollution Control at (614) 644-2270.

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The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency was created in 1972 to consolidate efforts to protect and improve air quality, water quality and waste management in Ohio. Since then, air pollutants dropped by as much as 90 percent; large rivers meeting standards improved from 21 percent to 89 percent; and hundreds of polluting, open dumps were replaced with engineered landfills and an increased emphasis on waste reduction and recycling.